The 2nd Battalion fought in the Boer War (1899-1902). They sailed on the Britannic about 7th January 1900, arriving about the 27th. Along with the 2nd South Wales Borderers, 1st East Lancashire, and 2nd North Staffordshire, they formed the 15th Brigade under Major General A G Wavell. After the end of the war, 376 officers and men returned home in October 1902.

The 3rd (Militia) battalion was also embodied for active duty in South Africa, with 450 men reported as returning home after the end of the war in September 1902.

The names of the men who served in the regiment are listed below